Lloyd Howell, the Executive Director of the NFL Players Association (NFLPA), has resigned from his position amidst growing controversies regarding conflicts of interest involving his consulting role with an approved private equity firm. In his statement released Thursday evening, Howell expressed that his commitment was always towards the health and welfare of the NFLPA membership. He stated that his continued presence was turning into a ‘distraction’, leading to his decision to step down, as he was nearing the third year of his official five-year term.
“Two years ago, I accepted the role of Executive Director of the NFLPA because I believe deeply in the mission of this union and the power of collective action to drive positive change for the players of America’s most popular sport,” Howell stated accurately.
He emphasized, “Our members deserve a union that will fight relentlessly for their health, safety, financial futures and long-term well-being. My priority has been to lead that fight by serving this union with focus and dedication.”
Howell added the need for the NFLPA to continue its crucial work without the potential distractions his leadership had inadvertently caused: “It’s clear that my leadership has become a distraction to the important work the NFLPA advances every day. For this reason, I have informed the NFLPA Executive Committee that I am stepping down as Executive Director of the NFLPA and Chairman of the Board of NFL Players effective immediately. I hope this will allow the NFLPA to maintain its focus on its player members ahead of the upcoming season.”
Howell stressed that he is proud of the accomplishments achieved during his tenure, and he will continue to support players from the sidelines.
Additionally, recent disclosures about Howell’s past as a paid consultant for The Carlyle Group, a firm involved with approved equity investments in the NFL, added to the scrutiny surrounding his leadership. This follows a ruling against the NFLPA regarding allegations of collusion related to confidentiality agreements with the league concerning player contract negotiations.
The board of the NFLPA is expected to convene shortly to discuss its next steps, including the appointment of an interim executive director.
